Pupil surgery, or pupilloplasty, refers to operations that alter the size, shape, or position of the pupil. It is performed to improve vision, reduce glare, or address cosmetic asymmetry.
Common Indications
Torn or irregular pupils from trauma, previous surgery, or iris defects can cause light scatter and visual distortion. Pupilloplasty techniques use fine sutures to reconstruct a more regular, central opening.
- Approaches include cerclage sutures, sector closure, or stitch techniques like Siepser knots
- Procedures may be combined with lens or iris reconstruction
- Desired pupil size is tailored to balance depth of field, light entry, and cosmesis
- Sometimes small pupils are enlarged surgically if they restrict view of the retina
Recovery
Post‑operative inflammation and light sensitivity are common but usually settle with drops. Final pupil appearance and function stabilise over weeks.
- Risks include suture breakage, irregularity, or secondary glaucoma
- Some patients continue to benefit from tinted lenses for comfort
- Follow‑up checks pressure, pupil shape, and visual quality
- Revision surgery is occasionally needed if the pupil changes over time
